In response to growing public concerns about land use and water, a Southern Minnesota Land Use Expo will take place July 20 at a farm near Blooming Prairie, according to a press release.

Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Dave Frederickson is scheduled to speak at the expo, which will focus on agriculture and water. Other elected officials are expected to be on hand for a special legislative listening session starting at 1 p.m.

The event will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rodney Krell farm along U.S. Highway 218, two miles north of Blooming Prairie.

There will be field demonstrations on various types of liquid and solid manure application equipment, as well as various types of conservation equipment.

“This is an educational experience for all ages whether they’re connected to farming or not,” said Dan Vermilyea, feedlot specialist for Steele County, who is helping to coordinate the event. “We’re hoping everyone will come away with a better understanding of agriculture and how it impacts water.”

Vermilyea said what makes the event unique is that it will have a legislative listening session.